James W. Yelverton (November 24, 1936 – May 11, 2011) was an American attorney, politician, and judge who served in the North Carolina state legislature and on the North Carolina Court of Appeals. A prominent figure in North Carolina's legal and political landscape, he was known for his extensive public service career.
Early Life and Education Born in Johnston County, North Carolina, Yelverton pursued higher education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1958. He continued his studies at the University of North Carolina School of Law, receiving his Juris Doctor (J.D.) in 1961. After completing his legal education, he served in the U.S. Army Reserve.
Political Career Yelverton began his career in public service as a legislator. He was elected to the North Carolina House of Representatives, where he served two terms from 1971 to 1974. Following his time in the House, he successfully ran for the North Carolina Senate, serving three terms from 1975 to 1980. During his legislative tenure, he was involved in various policy discussions and played a role in shaping state laws.
Judicial Career In 1981, Yelverton transitioned to the judiciary, being appointed as a District Court Judge. His tenure on the District Court was brief but set the stage for a higher appointment. In 1982, Governor Jim Hunt appointed him to the North Carolina Court of Appeals, one of the state's two appellate courts. He served as a judge on the Court of Appeals for over two decades, gaining a reputation for his judicial temperament and legal acumen. Yelverton retired from the bench in 2004.
Later Life and Death After his retirement from the Court of Appeals, Yelverton continued to be an respected figure in the legal community. He passed away on May 11, 2011, at the age of 74.